Tributes are flowing following the death of All Black and Samoan rugby and league international Va’aiga Tuigamala, known as Inga the winger, at age 52.
The All Blacks tweeted that Tuigamala, who played 19 tests, was “an icon and an inspiration” and “an all-time great who achieved things on and off the pitch others could only dream of”.
His rugby league club, Wigan Warriors, said on Twitter they were “deeply saddened to learn of the tragic news that former player Va’aiga (Inga) Tuigamala has passed away”.
Tuigamala’s death comes three weeks after his younger sister Helen Verry died in an accident at a West Auckland church.
He said at the time: “Helen we miss you so dearly and words would never be enough to fill the hole you have left.”
Tuigamala’s cause of death has not been confirmed. He was about to launch a video series in which he talks openly about his health struggles, including being diagnosed last year with type 2 diabetes.
His Allblacks.com profile said he “was one of the first blockbusting wingers in New Zealand, and indeed, world rugby before leaving the game to pursue a British league career.
“At his best, he was fast, powerful and tricky, but if he allowed the training to slip, not an unknown occurrence, he could look pedestrian and almost clumsy.
“Especially in his younger days, he looked capable of achieving anything on a rugby field.”
After his stint in league, Tuigamala played 23 tests for Samoa, including several at the 1999 Rugby World Cup.
He made the switch to league in 1993, joining Wigan, where he played 102 matches across five seasons, scoring 62 tries, and helping them to three league titles and two Challenge Cups.
After playing for Samoa at the 1995 Rugby League World Cup, he returned to rugby with Wasps and Newcastle Falcons.
“His presence on the rugby field was huge. As a teenager, he gave me the most precious thing that anyone could, time.
“We would spend hours on the field doing one-on-ones together. It is a very sad day for the club. Rest in peace, my friend.”
In 2015, Robinson credited Tuigamala with saving him at a time when he was on the brink of suicide.
“I owe so much to this amazing man! Literally helped change my life when he came to [Wigan] from NZ,” he said.
“Sending all my love and condolences to the family at such a sad time.”
